Homebrewed Christianity

Adam English, an expert on the historical figure of Saint Nick, dives deep into the life of the man behind the legend. He tackles questions about Saint Nick's racial identity and his role at the Council of Nicea, challenging myths surrounding this figure. The conversation highlights St. Nick's legacy of justice and charity versus today's commercialized Christmas. Adam also explores the intersection of historical truths and contemporary practices, prompting listeners to consider preserving the essence of Christmas amid societal changes.

Christopher Rodkey, a radical theologian and church planter, joins co-creators Jesse and Natalie Turri to discuss their unique Advent coloring book. They delve into the creative process behind blending theology with artistic expression. Rodkey shares insights on the political implications of Advent and contrasts radical theology with the commercialization of Christmas. The trio also explores innovative church planting strategies, advocating for intergenerational engagement and practical applications of biblical hermeneutics.

Philip Clayton, Ingraham Professor of Theology at the Claremont School of Theology and former adviser to the host, engages in a lively discussion. He challenges the idea of whether a process theologian can truly identify as an Evangelical, while exploring intricate concepts like Christology and divine realism. They confront the cultural hesitance around the term 'God' and delve into the relationship between historical criticism and special revelation. The conversation also touches on ethics, the nature of divine experiences, and how beauty can serve as a moral compass.

In this engaging conversation, Robyn Henderson-Espinoza, a prominent scholar at the intersection of theology and activism, dives into the complexities of Thanksgiving. They explore the dark origins of the holiday and how it juxtaposes gratitude with the genocide of indigenous peoples. The duo challenges nostalgic myths while advocating for deeper, more meaningful celebrations. Robyn also shares insights on holiday costumes for kids and introduces an exciting new #goactivisttheology project, all while emphasizing the importance of togetherness in remembrance.

Mark Galli, the editor-in-chief at Christianity Today and author of a biography on Karl Barth, unpacks the complexities of Evangelicalism today. He shares his personal journey to editorial leadership and examines the intricate relationships between evangelicals and contemporary politics, including support for Trump. Galli dives deep into Barth's critiques of liberal theology and his challenging ideas on the doctrine of election. And, for a fun twist, the conversation wraps up with some nerdy homebrewing tips!

Timothy Murphy, a theologian and activist focused on social justice, discusses his new book, Counter-Imperial Churching for a Planetary Gospel. He emphasizes the importance of engaging in conflict within the church to address social justice issues effectively. Timothy shares insights on the challenges faced by mainline Protestants and the connection between cosmology and ecclesiology. He advocates for practices that promote genuine solidarity, urges communities to confront privilege, and explores innovative approaches to church planting centered on local needs and activism.

Donna Bowman, an author specializing in qualitative research in theology, joins the conversation on the cultural clash between Pussy Hat Christianity and MAGA Hat Christianity. They discuss the significance of activism symbols, the emotional impact of the women’s march, and the patriarchal lens affecting perceptions of ambitious women like Hillary Clinton. Bowman highlights how her research reveals hidden complexities in scripture and advocates for engaging with real people's experiences through media, transforming theology into a communal dialogue.

Mike Morrell, co-author of The Divine Dance, and John Pavlovitz, author of A Bigger Table, dive into reviving the spirit of Advent. They discuss the impact of recent events on modern spirituality and the importance of community connection. The duo emphasizes crafting personal truth amidst holiday pressures and engaging in authentic conversations during family gatherings. They also reflect on the radical roots of Advent, using humor and nostalgia to foster hope and resilience in these challenging times.

Daniel Coleman, an author known for his work on contemplation and spiritual practices, shares his journey from traditional church dissatisfaction to a thirst for transformative living through Quaker spirituality. He discusses the rise of the mindfulness movement against the backdrop of declining religious affiliation in America. The conversation delves into apophatic mysticism, the nuances between enlightenment and salvation, and how Process thought connects Eastern and Western contemplative traditions. Coleman also offers practical tips for maintaining a mindful practice.

Robyn Henderson-Espinoza, a queer activist and public theologian with a PhD in constructive philosophical theology and ethics, dives into activist theology. They explore how diverse communities can unite without losing their individuality and challenge harmful societal norms. Robyn shares insights from their experiences in protests, including discussions on white fragility and intersectionality. They also reflect on the craft beer culture, linking it to community identity and the politics of difference, sparking thoughtful dialogue on social justice.